Does FSA cover laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure, so it isn't a qualified FSA expense.
What flips the answer
- Covered when
A physician documents it as treatment for a diagnosed medical condition rather than cosmetic hair removal.
- Not covered when
The treatment is for appearance — removing unwanted hair with no medical condition behind it.
IRS Publication 502 excludes cosmetic procedures — those directed at improving appearance rather than treating a disease or defect. It specifically names hair removal (electrolysis) as an example of a non-qualified cosmetic expense.
Laser hair removal falls in the same category. Because its purpose is appearance rather than treating a medical condition, paying for it from an FSA isn't allowed, even when performed in a medical or dermatology office.
The narrow exception is when a procedure is needed to treat a diagnosed medical condition rather than for looks — a rare case that would require documentation from a physician.
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